Medical wrap for neonatal kangaroo care

ABSTRACT

The invention is directed to a medical wrap for maintaining skin-to-skin contact between a wearer and a baby during kangaroo care and allowing passage of medical lines therethrough. The wrap is a single integral structure formed of a fabric and including a central portion having a top edge and a bottom edge; upper left and right members extending outwardly from the top edge of the central portion; and lower left and right members extending outwardly from the bottom edge of the central portion; wherein each of the upper members has a greater length compared to the length of each of the lower members.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to medical garments,particularly to a medical wrap for use in neonatal kangaroo care.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Newborn premature (i.e., born before the thirty-seventh week ofgestation) and low weight babies face increased risk of complicationsand mortality. Such babies require extensive specialized care in aneonatal intensive care unit equipped with monitoring machines to recordthe heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, temperature, and theamount of oxygen in the blood (oximetry); alarm systems; various methodsof respiratory assistance (for example, an endotracheal tube, ventilatoror respirator, continuous positive airway pressure, oxygen hood);various methods of feeding (for example, intravenous lines, umbilicalcatheter, oral and nasal feeding, central line); protective, warmingincubators; and Bili lights for treating jaundice. Multiple adhesivepads or cuffs are placed upon the chest, legs, arms, and other bodyparts of the premature baby, and are connected by electrical leads tothe respective machines.

However, such care typically results in the separation of the parentsand premature or low weight baby, thereby disrupting the bondingprocess. A lack of touch between the parent and baby causes release ofhigh amounts of the toxic stress hormone cortisol which negativelyimpacts immune function and growth hormone. Further, in developingcountries, access to medical technologies may be limited or unavailable,resulting in mortality of premature babies due to lack of proper medicalcare.

Kangaroo care is a method used to promote bonding between parents andtheir premature or low weight babies. Wearing only a hat and diaper, thebaby is placed in an upright position on the parent's bare chest to beheld in skin-to-skin contact with the parent. The baby's head is turnedto position an ear above the parent's heart. Being held upright exposesthe baby to combinations of sensory stimulation (kinesthetic, tactile,auditory, olfactory, visual and vestibular), and the flexed position ofthe baby more efficiently conserves heat as opposed to the baby lying onhis back in an incubator.

Significant benefits of kangaroo care include enhancement of parent-babybonding and improvement of the baby's prognosis, health and development.Kangaroo care stabilizes the baby's body temperature since the parent'sbody temperature will attain thermal synchrony with that of the baby.The temperature of the mother's breasts actually changes so that thebaby can better maintain his own temperature. If the baby becomes toocold, the mother's body temperature will actually warm up to help warmthe baby. If the baby becomes too hot, the mother's body temperaturewill decrease to cool the baby. Kangaroo care also stabilizes the baby'sheart rate, and improves the baby's weight gain, sleep pattern, andcognitive development. The incidences of nosocomial infection, illness,lower respiratory tract disease, bradycardia, apnea, uneven breathing,high cortisol levels, pain responses, and discomfort are significantlyreduced. Further, kangaroo care enables exclusive breastfeeding for alonger duration, with the skin-to-skin contact increasing milk supplyand let-down. Additional benefits include reductions in the length ofhospital stay, re-admissions to the hospital, and health care costs.

During kangaroo care, the baby is typically placed in position upon theparent's bare torso and covered by a light blanket or towel across thebaby's back. However, the baby may easily shift from the properposition, and the parent may readily tire due to having to hold the babycontinuously for at least one hour.

Various types of carriers, slings and wraps for infants have beendeveloped but are inappropriate for kangaroo care. Structured carriersare typically formed of multiple components including a pouch, pocket,or seat for the baby, stitched seams, and fasteners such as, forexample, belts, buckles, buttons, zippers, snaps, clasps, straps, ties,and VELCRO™. Such carriers are unsuitable for premature and low weightbabies since the pouch or pocket may be too large to be snug enough tosupport the baby's body, and stitched seams and plastic/metal fastenersmay damage the baby's sensitive skin. A pouch sling is a circle ofcotton or cotton/lycra mix fabric having a curved seam, but must becustom fitted to the parent since a loose sling will not support thebaby, while a tight sling will crush the baby. A ring sling is formed ofa length of cotton fabric having two rings at one end, through which afree end threads through the rings to create a pouch which supports thebaby; however, it is often difficult to achieve a close fit. Pouch andring slings suffer from lack of security for the baby who can easilyfall or slip out of the fabric.

A wrap is a short or long rectangular piece of fabric which is wrappedand tied around the parent and the baby to create a carrier. The wraptends to be formed of stretchy fabric such as cotton/lycra mix or jerseyknit. However, the wrap needs to be re-adjusted to remove as much slackas possible to hold the baby snugly. Further, as wrapping results inseveral overlapping layers, the baby can overheat but cannot be quicklyremoved from underneath these multiple layers. Stretchy fabrics willstretch further after prolonged use, necessitating a new wrap.Wrap-around shirts have been developed, but must be available indifferent sizes to fit the parent and include fasteners such as buttonswhich can press upon or damage the baby's skin.

As described above, prior art carriers, slings, and wraps are unsuitablefor premature and low weight babies. Further, they do not easilyaccommodate medical lines connected to the baby, or enable breastpumping and breastfeeding. Accordingly, there is a need in the art foran improved wrap for kangaroo care which mitigates these problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a medical wrap for neonatal kangaroocare.

In one aspect, the invention comprises a medical wrap for maintainingskin-to-skin contact between a wearer and a baby during kangaroo careand allowing passage of medical lines therethrough comprising:

a single integral structure formed of a fabric, the structure comprisinga central portion having a top edge and a bottom edge; upper left andright members extending outwardly from the top edge of the centralportion; and lower left and right members extending outwardly from thebottom edge of the central portion; wherein each of the upper membershas a greater length compared to the length of each of the lowermembers.

In one embodiment, the upper members are spaced from the lower membersby opposing U-shaped notches.

In one embodiment, the central portion is rectangular or square.

In one embodiment, the central portion has a width between about 10inches to about 32 inches, and a length between about 15 inches to about30 inches.

In one embodiment, each of the upper members has a length between about60 inches to about 100 inches, and a width between about 4 inches toabout 11 inches.

In one embodiment, each of the lower members has a length between about44 inches to about 100 inches, and a width between about 4 inches toabout 15 inches.

In one embodiment, the fabric comprises a linen and rayon blend.

In one embodiment, the lower members are modified to form lower left andright loops, the loops being sized to allow the upper members to extendtherethrough.

In one embodiment, each of the upper members has a greater lengthcompared to the length of each of the loops.

In one embodiment, the central portion has a width between about 10inches to about 30 inches, and a length between about 15 inches to about30 inches.

In one embodiment, each of the upper members has a length between about60 inches to about 100 inches, and a width between about 2 inches toabout 11 inches.

In one embodiment, each of the loops has a length between about 3 inchesto about 10 inches, and a width between about 2 inches to about 7inches.

In one embodiment, the central portion is configured to cover the wearerand define a pocket for holding the baby when the wrap is in use.

In one embodiment, the top edge is configured to form a supportive bandfor supporting the baby's head when the wrap is in use.

In one embodiment, the bottom edge is configured to form a base of thepocket for supporting the baby's bottom when the wrap is in use.

In one embodiment, the upper members are configured to pass over thewearer's shoulders, cross over the wearer's back, and to be tied at thefront or the back of the wearer when the wrap is in use.

In one embodiment, the lower members are configured to encircle thewearer's waist when the wrap is in use.

In one aspect, the invention comprises a method for applying the abovemedical wrap to a wearer comprising the steps of:

-   -   a) folding over the top edge and the upper members to form a        supportive band;    -   b) folding the bottom edge to create a pocket;    -   c) passing the lower members around the sides of the wearer's        waist to converge at the wearer's back, running the lower        members to the wearer's front, and tying the lower members;    -   d) passing the upper members underneath the armpits to converge        at the wearer's back in a criss-cross pattern overlying the        wearer's back; and    -   e) placing the baby within the pocket.

In one embodiment, after step (e), the upper members are passed over thewearer's shoulders to run underneath the lower members, and tied in aknot positioned underneath the pocket.

In one embodiment, after step (e), the upper members are passed over thewearer's shoulders to converge over the pocket in a criss-cross pattern,passed underneath the pocket and around to the wearer's back, and tiedat the wearer's front or back.

In one embodiment, after step (d), the upper members are passed over thewearer's shoulders to converge over the wearer's chest in a criss-cross,run underneath the pocket and the lower members, and tied at thewearer's front or back, the criss-cross defining a seat for the baby.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises covering the baby withthe upper members and pocket.

In one embodiment, after step (e), the upper members are passed over thewearer's shoulders and under the wearer's armpits to be tied at thewearer's back.

In one aspect, the invention comprises a method for applying the abovemedical wrap to a wearer comprising the steps of:

a) passing the upper members over the wearer's shoulders to converge atthe wearer's back in a criss-cross pattern overlying the wearer's back;

b) passing the upper members through the loops, tying the upper membersat the wearer's back, and running the upper members to the wearer'sfront;

c) placing the baby in the pocket; and

d) tying the upper members either at the baby's back or underneath thepocket.

In one aspect, the invention comprises a method for applying the abovemedical wrap to a wearer comprising the steps of:

a) placing the wrap over the baby and over the wearer's back;

b) tucking the bottom edge of the wrap underneath the baby's bottom toform the pocket;

c) passing the upper members over the wearer's shoulders to cross infront of the wearer's body, and passing the upper members through theloops; and

d) tying the upper members at the wearer's front or underneath thepocket.

Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will beapparent in view of the description, which follows. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the specificexamples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, aregiven by way of illustration only, since various changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of an exemplary embodimentwith reference to the accompanying simplified, diagrammatic,not-to-scale drawings. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is a back view of one embodiment of the present invention,showing the upper left and right shoulder straps and lower left andright waist straps folded over.

FIG. 1B is a partial view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A, showing theupper right shoulder strap and lower right waist strap fully extended.

FIG. 1C is a back view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A, showing relativedimensions.

FIG. 1D is a front view of a wearer shown wearing the embodiment of FIG.1A as it may be used with a baby.

FIGS. 2A-O are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 1A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 3A-C are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 1A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 4A-I are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 1A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 5A-C are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 1A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6A is a front view of one embodiment of the present invention,showing the upper left and right shoulder straps folded over.

FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A, showing thelower left and right waist loops.

FIG. 6C is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A, showing relativedimensions.

FIGS. 7A-J are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 6A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 8A-F are views outlining steps in a method for placing theembodiment of FIG. 6A on a wearer, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before the present invention is described in further detail, it is to beunderstood that the invention is not limited to the particularembodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to belimiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited onlyby the appended claims.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that eachintervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unlessthe context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lowerlimit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in thatstated range is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lowerlimits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in thesmaller ranges is also encompassed within the invention, subject to anyspecifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated rangeincludes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both ofthose included limits are also included in the invention,

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods andmaterials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also beused in the practice or testing of the present invention, a limitednumber of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, thesingular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise.

The present invention comprises a medical wrap for neonatal kangaroocare. The wrap is formed from a single section of fabric configured tobe wrapped around a wearer for maintaining skin-to-skin contact betweenthe wearer and a premature or low weight baby, and allowing passage ofmedical lines therethrough. As used herein, the term “wearer” means afemale or male adult.

FIGS. 1A-C generally show one embodiment of a medical wrap (10) of thepresent invention. The wrap (10) comprises a front side (12), a backside (14), a central portion (16), a top edge (18), a bottom edge (20),upper left and right members (22 a, 22 b) extending outwardly from thecentral portion (16), and lower left and right members (24 a, 24 b)extending outwardly from the central portion (16).

The front side (12) faces away from the wearer, while the back side (14)faces towards the wearer when the wrap (10) is in use. The centralportion (16) or breast-covering section is of generally rectangular orsquare configuration, having sufficient width and length inconsideration of the wearer's modesty. Since the wearer must expose herbare chest to hold the baby in skin-to-skin contact during kangaroocare, the breast-covering section (16) is sized to provide sufficientcoverage, comfort, and warmth to the wearer. The breast-covering section(16) defines a pocket or pouch (30) within which the baby is heldagainst the wearer in skin-to-skin contact when the wrap (10) is in use.

In one embodiment, the breast-covering section (16) has a width (“Wb”)between about 10 inches to about 32 inches, and a length (“Lb”) betweenabout 15 inches to about 30 inches as measured from the top edge (18) tothe bottom edge (20) (FIG. 1C).

The breast-covering section (16) may be provided with an indicator (26)such as, for example, a label, on either the front side (12) or the backside (14) to enable centering of the breast-covering section (16) on thesternum of the wearer's body. Preferably, the indicator (26) is providedon the back side (14) so it does not contact the baby.

A newborn baby has little control in lifting and holding his head steadydue to weak neck muscles. The top edge (18) forms a supportive bandwhich supports the baby's head when the top edge (18) is foldeddownwards over itself and in a direction away from the wearer when thewrap (10) is in use.

The bottom edge (20) forms the base of a pocket or pouch (30) to seatand support the baby's bottom firmly when the bottom edge (20) is foldedupwards upon itself and in a direction towards the wearer when the wrap(10) is in use. The bottom edge (20) acts as a “cummerbund” around thewearer's waist to prevent downward movement of the baby.

The upper left and right members (22 a, 22 b) or shoulder straps extendoutwardly from the breast-covering section (16) when the wrap (10) islaid out flat (FIGS. 1A-C). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) arerelatively wide and adapted to pass over the wearer's shoulders, crossover the wearer's back, and to be tied in a secure knot which ispositioned either at the front or the back of the wearer. The backcrossing of the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) on the wearer and theextreme width of the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) secure the wrap (10)to the wearer in a manner that improves comfort and minimizes thedownward force or strain on the wearer's shoulders caused by the weightof the baby. In addition, the width of the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b)promotes safety, since narrower straps are likely to cut into thewearer's skin, or to rip or tear under the weight of the baby. Thepositioning of the knot in front of the wearer and underneath the pouch(30) provides additional support underneath the baby's bottom.

The lower left and right members (24 a, 24 b) or waist straps extendoutwardly from the breast-covering section (16) when the wrap (10) islaid out flat (FIGS. 1A-C). The waist straps (24 a, 24 b) are relativelywide and adapted to encircle the wearer's waist to be tied in a secureknot which is positioned either at the front or the back of the wearerto secure the pouch (30) above the wearer's umbilicus. When positionedat the front of the wearer, the knot assists in preventing the baby fromfalling or slipping out of the wrap (10).

In one embodiment, each of the upper left and right shoulder straps (22a, 22 b) has a greater length compared to the length of each of thelower left and right waist straps (24 a, 24 b) (FIGS. 1B-C). In oneembodiment, each of the upper left and right straps (22 a, 22 b) has alength (“Lus”) between about 60 inches to about 100 inches as measuredfrom the indicator (26) positioned in the middle of the breast-coveringsection (16), and a width (“Wus”) between about 4 inches to about 11inches. In one embodiment, each of the lower left and right waist straps(24 a, 24 b) has a length (“Lls”) between about 44 inches to about 100inches as measured from the middle of the breast-covering section (16),and a width (“Wls”) between about 4 inches to about 15 inches.

The upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are spaced fromthe lower left and right waist straps (24 a, 24 b) by substantiallyopposing U-shaped notches (28 a, 28 b), rendering a substantially“butterfly-like” shape. The “butterfly-like” shape of the wrap (10)provides sufficient coverage for the wearer's chest and support for thebaby. In addition, the notches (28 a, 28 b) define side openings whenthe wrap (10) is in use to accommodate, route and allow access tomedical lines (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d, 36 e; FIG. 1D) connected to thebaby, and to enable the mother to pump her breasts.

The wrap (10) is formed of a fabric having sufficient resilience andstretch to encircle the wearer's torso snugly, yet comfortably, and toimpart sufficient compression to position and support the baby withoutapplying constrictive pressure. The fabric is also soft, lightweight,natural, and breathable to ensure that the parent and baby do notoverheat. Further, the fabric may also be machine washable and dryableat low heat to be appropriate for both hospital and home use. Suitablefabrics include, but are not limited to, natural, man-made, and anyblend of natural and man-made fibers such as, for example, linen, rayon,linen/rayon blend, cotton, bamboo, polyester, ramie, silk, tencel,elasthane, and the like.

In one embodiment, the fabric comprises linen and rayon blend. Alinen/rayon blend combines the toughness, durability, and airpermeability of linen with the stretchiness and softness of rayon. Inone embodiment, the fabric comprises between about 40% to about 60%linen, and between about 40% to about 60% rayon. In one embodiment, thefabric comprises 55% linen and 45% rayon blend. The fabric may also bewater-resistant, non-allergenic, and non-irritating.

The wrap (10) is of one-piece construction and is formed by cutting thefabric on the bias at an angle of 45 degrees to its warp and weftthreads in the configuration shown in FIG. 1A. Since the fabric is cutalong the diagonal, it imparts greater stretch to the wrap (10) than ifit is cut along the grain. The wrap (10) may be serged on the edges withpoly, wool/nylon, nylon, cotton or elasticized thread along all sidesusing an overlock stitch to prevent fraying. The wrap (10) is formedsolely of fabric, with the exception of thread on the edges in the eventthat the wrap (10) is serged. The wrap (10) lacks any stitched seams orfasteners (for example, belts, buckles, buttons, zippers, snaps, clasps,and VELCRO™) which would damage the baby's sensitive skin and increasecosts. Being formed of lightweight fabric, the wrap (10) is foldable andportable.

The wrap (10) is conveniently designed as “one size fits all” toaccommodate a wide range of sizes of wearer (i.e, both women and men);thus, different sizes of wrap (10) are not required. Both the mother andfather may thus share the same wrap (10) without having to purchase twoseparate sizes. Since the wrap (10) is constructed as one-piece and as“one size fits all” from readily available fabric, the wrap (10) isrelatively inexpensive to manufacture and budget-friendly for theconsumer.

Arrangements of the wrap (10) to achieve different configurations arcillustrated in FIGS. 2A-O, FIGS. 3A-3C, FIGS. 4A-I and FIGS. 5A-C whichshow embodiments of the wrap (10) in use. When the wrap (10) is wrappedand tied on the wearer, the baby is secured and supported inskin-to-skin contact with the wearer,

Referring to FIGS. 2A-O, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) on the wearer (a “basic”configuration). Initially, the wrap (10) is held by the upper left andright shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) with the indicator (26) centered atthe sternum of the wearer. The top edge (18) and shoulder straps (22 a,22 b) are folded over (i.e., at about the width of the shoulder straps),with the indicator (26) facing away from the wearer (FIG. 2A). Theshoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are draped over the wearer's left and rightshoulders, respectively (FIG. 2B), to free the wearer's hands forfolding the bottom edge (20) of the wrap (10) towards the wearer tocreate a pouch (30) for the baby (FIG. 2C). The base of the pouch (30)rests above the wearer's umbilicus.

The lower left and right waist straps (24 a, 24 b) are passed around thesides of the wearer's waist to converge at the wearer's back (FIG. 2D),and then brought to the wearer's front to be connected together by tyinga secure knot (FIG. 2E). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are passedunderneath the armpits (FIG. 2F) to converge at the wearer's back in acriss-cross pattern overlying the wearer's back (FIG. 2G), and thendraped over the wearer's shoulders to the front of the body (FIG. 2H) inorder to free the wearer's hands for placing the baby within the pouch(30) (FIG. 2I).

The wearer supports the baby's head and legs as the baby is placed tosit upright in a frog position within the pouch (30) (FIG. 2J). In thefrog position, the baby's bottom is downward, the knees are bentoutwards, the legs are raised to a 90° angle to the spine, and the armsare raised up to the sides or positioned at an oblique angle. The top ofthe wrap (10) is positioned at the baby's mid-ear level, with the baby'shead turned to the side and in a neutral position. The baby's stomach ispositioned in skin-to-skin contact with the wearer's chest.Alternatively, the baby may be positioned correctly upon the wearer'schest and the wrap (10) is then pulled over the baby.

The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are straightened to lie comfortablyover the wearer's shoulders (FIG. 2K) and are pulled downwardly to betucked underneath the waist straps (24 a, 24 b) at the waist (FIG. 2L-M)and knotted together underneath the base of the pouch (30), therebysupporting the baby's bottom (FIG. 2N-O). Alternately, the shoulderstraps (22 a, 22 b) may be crossed underneath the base of the pouch(30), thereby supporting the baby's bottom, and tied behind the wearer'sback,

Referring to FIGS. 3A-C, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) on the wearer (a “cross-over”configuration). The cross-over configuration is suitable for newborn andolder babies. After the baby has been placed into the pouch (30) asshown in FIG. 2M, the upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b)are pulled downwardly over the wearer's shoulders to converge over thepouch (30) in a criss-cross pattern without covering the baby's head(FIG. 3B). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are passed underneath thebase of the pouch (30) to support the baby's bottom, and around to thewearer's back (FIG. 3C). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) may then betied in a knot at the front or back of the wearer's waist, dependingupon the waist size of the wearer. The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) arethen straightened over the wearer's shoulders to ensure a comfortablefit.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-I, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) on the wearer (a “cross-under”configuration). This configuration allows the mother to pump her breastswithout removing the baby, to use the wrap (10) with later termpremature babies, and to carry the baby safely. After the step shown inFIG. 2H, the upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) arepulled downwardly over the wearer's shoulders to converge over thewearer's chest in a criss-cross pattern, and are then passed underneaththe pouch (30) and the waist straps (24 a, 24 b) which have been tied atthe waist (FIGS. 4B-C). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) may be tied inthe front or back (FIG. 4D) of the wearer's waist, depending upon thewaist size of the wearer. The criss-cross defines a seat (FIG. 4E) intowhich the baby is placed in a straddling position (FIG. 4F-G). Theshoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are then spread to cover the baby (FIG. 4H)without covering the baby's head, and the pouch (30) is pulled upwardlyto cover the criss-cross (FIG. 4I). To enable pumping, the mother lowersthe pouch (30), thereby allowing the mother to pump her breasts whilesimultaneously supporting the baby. The prolonged skin-to-skin contactbetween the mother and the baby increases milk supply and let-down.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-C, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) on the wearer (a “back tie”configuration). This configuration is suitable for a plus size parent.After the step shown in FIG. 2M with the baby placed in the pouch (30),the upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are pulleddownwardly over the shoulders, and are passed under the wearer's armpitsto be tied at the wearer's back (FIGS. 5B-C).

Premature and low weight babies usually require assistance to breatheand eat, and are often fully instrumented. It is thus frequentlynecessary, or at least desirable, to leave medical lines attached to thebaby. As used herein, the term “medical line” means any tubing, wiring,and similar lines that are commonly connected to the baby including, butnot limited to, lines for recording the heart rate, respiratory rate,blood pressure, temperature, and the amount of oxygen in the blood; forassisting in respiration (for example, an endotracheal tube, ventilatoror respirator, continuous positive airway pressure, oxygen hood); forfeeding (for example, intravenous lines, umbilical catheter, oral andnasal feeding, central line), and the like. Since babies have less skinsurface area available for attachment of medical lines, each line isprecisely positioned, and the position of such is fixed relative to thebaby to prevent migration or dislodgment.

The embodiments of the wrap (10) are configured for passage of medicallines therethrough (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d, 36 e; FIG. 1D). Theconfiguration of the wrap (10) in a substantially “butterfly-like” shapeis conducive to accommodating or routing the lines (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36d, 36 e) and allowing access to the lines (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d, 36 e)connected to the baby from the top, bottom, and sides of the wrap (10),once the wrap (10) has been placed on the wearer and the baby is seatedin the pouch (30). When using the wrap (10), the lines (36 a, 36 b, 36c, 36 d, 36 e) do not have to be disconnected or removed from the baby,and can remain properly and comfortably attached to the baby duringkangaroo care without migration, dislodgment, retraction, oradvancement. Stabilization of the lines (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d, 36 e)is important since movement or awkward positioning of the lines (36 a,36 b, 36 c, 36 d, 36 e) can irritate the baby's nostrils or skin.Further, retraction or advancement of the lines (36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 d,36 e) (for example, feeding tubes) must be prevented.

The wrap (10) of the present invention is not limited to wraps havingthe configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C. In one embodiment shown inFIGS. 6A-C, the wrap (10) comprises a front side (12), a back side (14),a breast-covering section (16), a top edge (18), a bottom edge (20),upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b), and lower left andright waist loops (32 a, 32 b). The waist loops (32 a, 32 b) are formedby shortening the lower left and right waist straps (24 a, 24 b),doubling back the ends of the shortened waist straps (24 a, 24 b), andattaching (e.g., sewing) the loops (32 a, 32 b) to the bottom edge (20)so as to hold the loop formation. The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) arespaced from the waist loops (32 a, 32 b) by substantially opposingU-shaped notches (34 a, 34 b), rendering a substantially“butterfly-like” shape. Each of the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) has agreater length compared to the length of each of the waist loops (32 a,32 b). The waist loops (32 a, 32 b) are sized to allow the shoulderstraps (22 a, 22 b) to extend therethrough.

In one embodiment, the breast-covering section (16) has a width (“Wb”)between about 10 inches to about 30 inches. In one embodiment, thebreast-covering section (16) has a length (“Lb”) between about 15 inchesto about 30 inches as measured from the top edge (18) to the bottom edge(20).

In one embodiment, each of the upper left and right shoulder straps (22a, 22 b) has a length (“Lus”) between about 60 inches to about 100inches as measured from the middle of the breast-covering section (16),and a width (“Wus”) between about 2 inches to about 11 inches. In oneembodiment, each of the lower left and right waist loops (32 a, 32 b)has a length (“Ll”) between about 3 inches to about 10 inches, and awidth (“Wl”) between about 2 inches to about 7 inches. The wrap (10) maybe formed of suitable fabrics including, but are not limited to,natural, man-made, and any blend of natural and man-made fibers such as,for example, micro-suede, cotton, micro-suede/cotton blend, bamboo,ramie, silk, tencel, linen, line/silk blend, linen/cotton blend,polyester/cotton blend, rayon, nylon, polyester, polyester/nylon mesh,elasthane, and the like.

Referring to FIGS. 7A-J, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) having waist loops (32 a, 32 b) onthe wearer (a “front carry” configuration). Initially, the wrap (10) isheld by the upper left and right shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) (FIG. 7A).The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are passed over the wearer's shouldersto converge at the wearer's back in a criss-cross pattern overlying thewearer's back (FIG. 7B). The shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) are passedthrough the lower waist loops (32 a, 32 b) (FIG. 7C), and are then tiedat the wearer's back (FIG. 7D) before being run to the wearer's frontwhere they are tucked into the pant pockets, gripped between thewearer's legs, or tied (FIG. 7E). Ensuring that the bottom edge (20) ofthe wrap (10) is snug above the wearer's umbilicus to form a pouch (30)for the baby, the wearer inserts the baby into the pouch (30) fromeither the side (FIG. 7F) or top (FIG. 7G) of the wrap (10) to situpright in a frog position, with the baby's feet facing outwardly overthe waist loops (32 a, 32 b) (FIG. 7H). The top edge (18) of the wrap(10) is positioned at the baby's mid-ear level, with the baby's headturned to the side and in a neutral position. The shoulder straps (22 a,22 b) are then pulled tightly and are tied in a knot either at thebaby's back (FIGS. 7I-J) or underneath the base of the pouch (30),thereby supporting the baby's bottom.

Referring to FIGS. 8A-F, there is shown one embodiment of a step-by-stepsequence for placing the wrap (10) having waist loops (32 a, 32 b) onthe wearer (a “back carry” configuration). Initially, the wrap (10) isplaced over the baby, with the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) placedunderneath the baby's armpits (FIG. 8A). While leaning slightly forward,the wearer carefully positions the baby and wrap (10) over her back(FIG. 8B). The bottom edge (20) of the wrap (10) is tucked underneaththe baby's bottom to form the pouch (30), with the baby's feet facingoutwardly over the waist loops (32 a, 32 b) (FIG. 8C). The shoulderstraps (22 a, 22 b) are passed over the wearer's shoulders, crossed infront of the wearer's body, and tucked into the pant pockets or grippedbetween the wearer's legs to allow grasping of the waist loops (32 a, 32b) (FIG. 8D). While holding both the shoulder straps (22 a, 22 b) andwaist loops (32 a, 32 b), the wearer passes the right shoulder strap (22b) through the left waist loop (32 a), and the left shoulder strap (22a) through the right waist loop (32 b) (FIG. 8E). The shoulder straps(22 a, 22 b) are then pulled tightly and tied in a knot either at thewearer's front or underneath the base of the pouch (30), therebysupporting the baby's bottom (FIG. 8F).

The wrap (10) of the present invention may be used in a variety ofsituations and in various ways. Typically, the wrap (10) is used forneonatal kangaroo care. Since the wrap (10) is easy to use, the wearercan place the wrap (10) on her/his bare chest in the privacy of homeprior to a hospital visit. Use of the wrap (10) is not limited to onlypremature and low weight babies. The wrap (10) may be useful for olderbabies. The wrap (10) may used as a baby carrier to support a baby.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-C may be used with a single baby havinga weight up to about 10 kg (22 lbs), or even with two premature or lowweight babies sharing the same wrap (10).

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-C may be used with a baby having aweight up to a maximum of about 11 kg (25 lbs) to about 16 kg (35 lbs)depending upon the fabric and intended use. Preferably, the baby is atleast three months of age and has developed head control. The wrap (10)may be formed of polyester/nylon mesh for use in water (for example, aswimming pool). The wrap (10) can support a baby having a weight of upto 16 kg (35 lbs) in water, or a baby having a weight ranging from about4 kg (10 lbs) to about 11-16 kg (25-35 lbs) outside of water. The wrap(10) may be formed of non-mesh, double-sided fabric (such as, forexample, micro-suede/cotton blend, linen/silk blend, linen/cottonblend).

In one embodiment, the wrap (10) of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-Chas a wider body portion (16) than the body portion (16) of theembodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-C in order to be supportive and safe foruse with a premature or low weight baby who has little control inlifting and holding his head steady. In comparison, the narrower bodyportion (16) of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-C is suitable for anolder baby who has developed head control. One skilled in the art wouldconsider that a greater amount of fabric would be needed to support alarger baby compared to a smaller baby. However, the present inventionindicates that a wider wrap (10) is required for a smaller baby, whereasa narrower wrap (10) is needed for a larger baby.

When worn, the wrap (10) does not interfere with body motions and doesnot restrict the usefulness or movement of the hands and arms such thatthe wearer may manipulate other articles without the inconvenience ofhaving to maintain a constant grip or hold on the baby. The wrap (10)conveniently provides freedom for the hands and arms of the wearer toaccomplish other activities (for example, reading, working, shopping,household chores, etc.) while the baby is supported securely within thewrap (10) against the wearer. The physical and emotional closenessbetween the wearer and baby are thus prolonged, enhancing thebaby-parent relationship.

It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that manymore modifications besides those already described are possible withoutdeparting from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subjectmatter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of thedisclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms shouldbe interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with thecontext. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should beinterpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in anon-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements,components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with otherelements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

References

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference(where permitted) to disclose and describe the methods and/or materialsin connection with which the publications are cited. The publicationsdiscussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to thefiling date of the present application. Nothing herein is to beconstrued as an admission that the present invention is not entitled toantedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, thedates of publication provided may be different from the actualpublication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.

-   Carter, K. T. Infant carrier. U.S. Pat. Des. 247,199, issued Feb. 7,    1978.-   Dardel, J. and Pavlik, S. Baby carrier. United States Patent    Application Publication No. 2012/0286002 A1, published Nov. 15,    2012.-   Heidt, E. S. Custom fitting, hands-free, baby wrap carrier article    for infants and toddlers. United States Patent Application    Publication No. 2005/0133551 A1, published Jun. 23, 2005.-   Heine, N. Method for attaching textile baby carrying sheet to body,    comprising loose ends left in front for adjustment. German Patent    No. 10 2004 042 328 B3, issued Mar. 9, 2006.-   Hiniduma-Lokuge, P. D. Infant carrier. United States Patent    Application Publication No. 2008/0149674 A1, published Jun. 26,    2008.-   Hiniduma-Lokuge, P. D. Infant carrier. United States Patent    Application Publication No. 2012/0234877 A1, published Sep. 20,    2012.-   Hoffman, E. Baby carrier. European Patent Application No. 0 792 605    A1, published Feb. 28, 1997.-   Larch, D. Carrying device for a baby or a small child. United States    Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0160885 A1, published Jun.    28, 2012.-   Moftakhar, N. Baby carrier. United States Patent Application    Publication No. 2010/0200626 A1, published Aug. 12, 2010.-   Napolitano, N. A. Baby carrying device. U.S. Pat. No. 4,579,264,    issued Apr. 1, 1986.-   Parness, M. A.; Lighthall, S. and Ward, M. United States Patent    Application Publication No. 2011/0240693 A1, published Oct. 6, 2011.-   Powell, K. L. Baby sling. U.S. Pat. No. 5,950,887, issued Sep. 14,    1999.-   Rahni, K. Wearable carrier. United States Patent Application    Publication No. 2012/0248159 A1, published Oct. 4, 2012.-   Reding, N. L. Child carrying harness. U.S. Pat. No. 4,544,088,    issued Oct. 1, 1985.-   Shatzkin, E. and Williams, M. Adult infant bonding garment. U.S.    Pat. No. 5,946,725, issued Sep. 7, 1999.-   Teetz, J. Baby-tragetuch mit schnalle. DE 20 2010 007 192 U1, issued    Dec. 16, 2010.-   Zack, E. Easy wrap carrier with lumbar support. International    Publication No. WO 2012/109467 A1, published Aug. 16, 2012.

What is claimed is:
 1. A medical wrap for maintaining skin-to-skincontact between a wearer and a baby during kangaroo care and allowingpassage of medical lines therethrough comprising: a single integralstructure formed of a fabric, the structure comprising a central portionhaving a top edge and a bottom edge; upper left and right membersextending outwardly from the top edge of the central portion; and lowerleft and right members extending outwardly from the bottom edge of thecentral portion; wherein each of the upper members has a greater lengthcompared to the length of each of the lower members.
 2. The wrap ofclaim 1, wherein the upper members are spaced from the lower members byopposing U-shaped notches.
 3. The wrap of claim 1, wherein the centralportion is rectangular or square.
 4. The wrap of claim 3, wherein thecentral portion has a width between about 10 inches to about 32 inches,and a length between about 15 inches to about 30 inches.
 5. The wrap ofclaim 1, wherein each of the upper members has a length between about 60inches to about 100 inches, and a width between about 4 inches to about11 inches.
 6. The wrap of claim 1, wherein each of the lower members hasa length between about 44 inches to about 100 inches, and a widthbetween about 4 inches to about 15 inches.
 7. The wrap of claim 1,wherein the fabric comprises a linen and rayon blend.
 8. The wrap ofclaim 1, wherein the lower members are modified to form lower left andright loops, the loops being sized to allow the upper members to extendtherethrough.
 9. The wrap of claim 8, wherein each of the upper membershas a greater length compared to the length of each of the loops. 10.The wrap of claim 8, wherein the central portion has a width betweenabout 10 inches to about 30 inches, and a length between about 15 inchesto about 30 inches.
 11. The wrap of claim 8, wherein each of the uppermembers has a length between about 60 inches to about 100 inches, and awidth between about 2 inches to about 11 inches.
 12. The wrap of claim8, wherein each of the loops has a length between about 3 inches toabout 10 inches, and a width between about 2 inches to about 7 inches.13. The wrap of claim 1, wherein the central portion is configured tocover the wearer and define a pocket for holding the baby when the wrapis in use.
 14. The wrap of claim 13, wherein the top edge is configuredto form a supportive band for supporting the baby's head when the wrapis in use.
 15. The wrap of claim 14, wherein the bottom edge isconfigured to form a base of the pocket for supporting the baby's bottomwhen the wrap is in use.
 16. The wrap of claim 15, wherein the uppermembers are configured to pass over the wearer's shoulders, cross overthe wearer's back, and to be tied at the front or the back of the wearerwhen the wrap is in use.
 17. The wrap of claim 16, wherein the lowermembers are configured to encircle the wearer's waist when the wrap isin use.
 18. A method for applying the medical wrap of claim 1 to awearer comprising the steps of: a) folding over the top edge and theupper members to form a supportive band; b) folding the bottom edge tocreate a pocket; c) passing the lower members around the sides of thewearer's waist to converge at the wearer's back, running the lowermembers to the wearer's front, and tying the lower members; d) passingthe upper members underneath the armpits to converge at the wearer'sback in a criss-cross pattern overlying the wearer's back; and e)placing the baby within the pocket.
 19. The method of claim 18, whereinafter step (e), the upper members are passed over the wearer's shouldersto run underneath the lower members, and tied in a knot positionedunderneath the pocket.
 20. The method of claim 18, wherein after step(e), the upper members are passed over the wearer's shoulders toconverge over the pocket in a criss-cross pattern, passed underneath thepocket and around to the wearer's back, and tied at the wearer's frontor back.
 21. The method of claim 18, wherein after step (d), the uppermembers are passed over the wearer's shoulders to converge over thewearer's chest in a criss-cross, run underneath the pocket and the lowermembers, and tied at the wearer's front or back, the criss-crossdefining a seat for the baby.
 22. The method of claim 21, furthercomprising covering the baby with the upper members and pocket.
 23. Themethod of claim 18, wherein after step (e), the upper members are passedover the wearer's shoulders and under the wearer's armpits to be tied atthe wearer's back.
 24. A method for applying the medical wrap of claim 8to a wearer comprising the steps of: a) passing the upper members overthe wearer's shoulders to converge at the wearer's back in a criss-crosspattern overlying the wearer's back; b) passing the upper membersthrough the loops, tying the upper members at the wearer's back, andrunning the upper members to the wearer's front; c) placing the baby inthe pocket; and d) tying the upper members either at the baby's back orunderneath the pocket.
 25. A method for applying the medical wrap ofclaim 8 to a wearer comprising the steps of: a) placing the wrap overthe baby and over the wearer's back; b) tucking the bottom edge of thewrap underneath the baby's bottom to form the pocket; c) passing theupper members over the wearer's shoulders to cross in front of thewearer's body, and passing the upper members through the loops; and d)tying the upper members at the wearer's front or underneath the pocket.